Is this simple harmonic motion?

In summary, the conversation discusses the displacement of a particle along the x-axis, given by the equation x=A sin^2(wt). The solution uses the identity sin^2(wt)=(1-cos(2wt))/2 and calculates the time period using T=2pi/w as pi/w. It is determined that the particle motion is simple harmonic, with the mean position not at the origin.
  • #1
faiz4000
19
0

Homework Statement



The displacement of a particle along x-axis given by x=A sin^2(wt), where the symbols have their usual meaning. Is the particle motion simple harmonic? also find its time period.


Homework Equations



simple harmonic eqn iss of the form x=Asin(wt) or x=acos(wt).


The Attempt at a Solution



using the identity sin^2(wt)=(1-cos(2wt))/2
x=A/2(1-cos(2wt)
then x=A/2-A/2cos(2wt)

here i get the time period using T=2pi/w as pi/w.
but i don't know whether its SHM or not.
thank you for ur help.
 
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  • #2
faiz4000 said:


using the identity sin^2(wt)=(1-cos(2wt))/2
x=A/2(1-cos(2wt)
then x=A/2-A/2cos(2wt)



Here you have proved that is an SHM. Only the mean position is not at origin.
 
  • #3
thanks.
 

Related to Is this simple harmonic motion?

1. What is simple harmonic motion?

Simple harmonic motion is a type of periodic motion in which an object oscillates back and forth around an equilibrium point with a constant amplitude and a constant period. It can be described by a sinusoidal function, and is often seen in systems such as pendulums and springs.

2. How do you determine if motion is simple harmonic?

To determine if motion is simple harmonic, you can look for two characteristics: a restoring force that is directly proportional to the displacement from equilibrium, and a constant period of oscillation. If both of these conditions are met, then the motion is considered to be simple harmonic.

3. What factors affect the period of simple harmonic motion?

The period of simple harmonic motion is affected by two main factors: the mass of the object and the strength of the restoring force. A larger mass will result in a longer period, while a stronger restoring force will result in a shorter period.

4. Can simple harmonic motion occur in real-life systems?

Yes, simple harmonic motion can occur in real-life systems. Some examples include a swinging pendulum, a mass on a spring, and the vibrations of a guitar string. These systems may not be perfectly sinusoidal, but as long as they meet the conditions of a restoring force proportional to displacement and a constant period, they can be considered simple harmonic motion.

5. How is simple harmonic motion different from other types of periodic motion?

Simple harmonic motion is different from other types of periodic motion in that it has a constant period and a restoring force that is directly proportional to displacement. Other types of periodic motion, such as circular motion, may have a varying period and/or a different type of restoring force.

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